We'd like to strengthen and raise the visibility of Python usergroups and
foster the creation of new ones, by sharing the valuable experiences of those
leaders around the community who make it happen.
[1] One step is to make others more aware of what is already happening,
perhaps in their own neighborhood re Python meetings. I've created a
shared blog and invite organizers of existing groups to send me their
email address to get privs to post to it.
http://python-groups.blogspot.com/
Because these postings will be distributed far and wide, a posting should
be of interest to those who did not attend but are considering doing so,
or that might be instructive to organizers in other cities. An overview of
what was covered in a past meeting, or an announcement with substance on
what an upcoming meeting is going to be about are good postings. A simple
date and local address, or that the pizza was good last week, is not. ;-)
[2] A second step is to encourage and support new organizers in forming groups
in their area. There is a strong demand for such meetings, but many are
uncertain how to go about it. Therefore I've created a new mailing list
on which experienced and new organizers can share tips on getting started,
whether about getting the word out, finding a place to meet or getting
interesting speakers.
http://mail.python.org/mailman/listinfo/group-organizers
Those of us with a history of involvement in a usergroup often forget that
many people have never attended a usergroup meeting, or lack experience in
running one, so let's help strengthen this aspect of Python. We could use
some videos or photos of group meetings as well, posted to
youtube.com/flickr.com and the link emailed to me for use.
I'd also like to reach out to the existing, successful usergroups and ask them
to spread the word about their efforts by being interviewed by Ron Stephens on
Python411, and/or writing up an article on how your group got started for
Tennessee Leeuwenburg of _The Python Papers_. Even a simple "what a typical
meeting is like in my area" is helpful.
http://www.awaretek.com/python/index.htmlhttp://pythonpapers.cgpublisher.com/
It would be especially interesting to see how usergroups operate in various
countries around the world, and perhaps help bring together these regions.
In closing, please, for existing usergroups as well as new ones coming online,
update the entry for your group on the roster of Python usergroups.
http://wiki.python.org/moin/LocalUserGroups
Jeff Rush
Advocacy Coordinator